When you tell someone about imaging the first thing that comes
to mind is the X-Ray.
The X-ray is the pre-cursor and cornerstone of every machine imaginable. You have the MRI, the CT scan, and the Mammography machine
among others. What people also tend to think of are dark rooms coupled with
cold and some noise.
So does this all mean that we know what we need to know
about imaging? Are we fully aware of how important it is to understand imaging?
The answer to that is no. Most of the population is not comprised of imaging
experts and for sure we have a field of understanding that’s not as broad as
that of a radiologist, technician, or a physicist. The International Day of Radiology
helps inform patients on the importance of imaging.
The purpose of the International Day of Radiology is not to
merely push an agenda on the patient. It’s important that the patient
understand the need for screening as well as the need for understanding whether
or the patient should try for preventive imaging over certain periods of time.
It’s stated on the site of the International Day of Radiology that “Medical
imaging is one of the most exciting and progressive disciplines in healthcare
and a field of great activity in terms of technological and biological
research. X-rays, MRI scans, ultrasound and numerous other medical imaging
technologies, as well as the eye-catching images associated with them, are
known to many people, but the exact purpose and value of these services is not
widely understood.”
While advocacy has aided greatly in helping patients
understand why certain tests are needed, often times patients still question
the need for a specific imaging procedure. While the X-Ray is commonly and
widely accepted, it seems like the MRI, and CT scan, among others,
are not really accepted as much. Hopefully this will help people in general
understand that a necessary imaging procedure often times means a real
difference between life and death. Minimally it means a difference between
proper treatment and inaccurate treatment of a complex condition.
If you have any questions about diagnostic imaging
procedures please feel free to give us a call. Our team of dedicated imaging
professionals looks forward to answering all your questions and helping you in
all your diagnostic imaging needs.
Charla
Hurst General
Operations Manager
Operations Manager